Mandai Mangrove & Bukit Batok Corridor to Enhance Conservation and Recreation

Singapore’s natural landscape is set to expand with the opening of two new major green spaces—the Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat Nature Park and the Bukit Batok Nature Corridor—scheduled to open progressively from 2028. These developments aim to enhance biodiversity conservation, provide ecological connectivity, and offer new recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

As part of Singapore’s City in Nature vision, the National Parks Board (NParks) is launching two significant nature projects to support wildlife conservation and provide nature-based recreation. The Bukit Batok Nature Corridor, covering 125 hectares, will link existing green spaces to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and the future Tengah Forest Corridor. Meanwhile, the Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat Nature Park, spanning 72.8 hectares, will serve as a crucial wetland habitat for migratory birds and endangered species.

Bukit Batok Nature Corridor to Enhance Trails and Green Connectivity

The Bukit Batok Nature Corridor will integrate multiple nature parks and extend 10km of green trails, improving connectivity between Bukit Timah and Tengah. New features will include:
– Refurbished trails and boardwalks at Bukit Batok Nature Park, offering scenic views of the quarry.
– Enhanced streams and native flora to support biodiversity and prevent erosion.
– A new exercise plaza and visitor amenities, including a passenger drop-off point and sheltered areas.
– More than 1,200 species, with 200 of conservation significance, including the Sunda pangolin and straw-headed bulbul.

NParks confirmed that environmental impact assessments (EIA) have been conducted, ensuring conservation-sensitive planning. Public feedback is invited until February 21, 2025.

NParks confirmed that environmental impact assessments (EIA) have been conducted, ensuring conservation-sensitive planning. Public feedback is invited until February 21, 2025.

Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat: A Haven for Migratory Shorebirds

Located 3km east of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, the Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat Nature Park will protect one of Singapore’s richest wetland ecosystems. Key features include:

– New trails and bird hides, allowing visitors to observe migratory birds such as common greenshanks and Pacific golden plovers without disturbing them.
– Restoration of natural coastal habitats, using nature-based solutions to prevent erosion and support mangrove regeneration.
– Support for endangered species, including horseshoe crabs and the buffy fish owl.
– A critical feeding ground for shorebirds, with many species migrating from the Arctic Circle and Russia between August and March.

The site is home to 380 fauna species and 190 flora species, reinforcing its ecological importance. NParks emphasized that construction work will be carefully planned to avoid disruptions during migratory seasons.

Ecological Significance and Sustainable Planning

Singapore’s approach to conservation includes mitigating environmental impact, with NParks implementing measures such as:

– Avoiding areas with high conservation value and salvaging protected plant species.
– Reintroducing large-seeded native plants, such as wild nutmeg trees, to strengthen forest resilience.
– Ensuring sustainable tourism practices, balancing public access with wildlife protection.

Dr. Shawn Lum, senior lecturer at Nanyang Technological University’s Asian School of the Environment, highlighted the importance of these efforts, stating: “Enhancing connectivity for wildlife is crucial for mitigating habitat fragmentation in urban areas.”

These new nature parks will:

– Provide expanded eco-tourism opportunities, with scenic trails, birdwatching sites, and educational experiences.
– Strengthen Singapore’s biodiversity and wildlife corridors, ensuring long-term sustainability.
– Enhance recreational spaces, supporting health and well-being through outdoor activities.
– Reinforce Singapore’s reputation as a leader in urban nature conservation, showcasing its commitment to balancing development with ecological preservation.

Sources: Mothership SG, The Straits Times (2025)

Keywords: Singapore Nature Parks, Bukit Batok Mandai, 2028 Park Openings